Fergie threat after Magnier raises stakes

Ever since Ferguson chose to drag Magnier through the courts over disputed stud rights to the champion racehorse Rock Of Gibraltar, it has been thought the Irishman would do his best to test the impregnability of his former friend's position at Old Trafford. Now those who tread the corridors of power at the club suspect war has broken out.

As Sportsmail revealed in November, Magnier and his friend and business partner at Cubic Expression Ltd, JP McManus, have employed private investigators to look into Ferguson's personal and business background in an attempt to support their case in the courts.

Worryingly for United, these endeavours may now have spread to Ferguson's practices at Old Trafford. Given that Cubic Expression own almost a quarter of shares at the club, concern has been felt at boardroom level.

As a publicly quoted company, United are understandably concerned about anything that may threaten their credibility with the City.

But the episode that has so alarmed shareholders and, it would seem, the plc board, came at the club's annual meeting in November. Board members were asked a series of provocative questions by individuals now suspected to have been present on behalf of Magnier.

Respected United commentator and journalist Michael Crick, who wrote a recent biography of Ferguson, is convinced of these individuals' connections and has posted an article suggesting as much on the website of the United Shareholders group.

More significantly, however, Cubic Expression last night refused to comment on such suggestions. United sources have not dismissed the connection, either.

Indeed, at a meeting of shareholders and fans prior to Sunday's game, chief executive David Gill appeared to endorse the view when he told supporters he was aware of the issue and would take it up directly with Magnier.

As is his way, Ferguson has refused to be perturbed by the situation. Although he in many ways set the hare running by pointing a finger at Ireland before Christmas, he has subsequently kept his distance.

In the background, though, lurks the thorny and as yet unresolved issue of his new contract. Publicly, United and their boss continue to insist all is well and the document that will keep the Scot at the club beyond his 65th birthday will be signed.

That is becoming a repetitive but unfulfilled promise. With Coolmore known to have reservations about Ferguson's continued employment, it is understandable that fans are becoming anxious.

As ever, those who join the throng at Old Trafford every match- day continue to support their manager.

On the field he remains as untouchable as ever.

But by taking on a man as powerful as Magnier, has Ferguson become involved in a dirtier fixture than anything the Premiership has ever witnessed?